To Recite Salat-o-Salam Upon the Holy Prophet Salallahu Tala Alaihi Wasallam

It is completely within the Shari'ah to recite Salutations and Blessings upon Allah's Messenger (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as is evident in the following Quranic verse: "Undoubtedly, Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet (the Communicator of Unseen News), O you who believe! Send upon him blessings and salute him fully well in abundance". (Surah al-Ahzab, Verse 56)

Here, in the above verse, Allah Ta�ala at the very outset attributed Salawat (recital of blessings) on our Beloved Nabi Hazrat Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), first to Himself (Sunnat-i-Ilaahi), then to His Angels (Sunnat-i-Malaa'ika), and after this enjoined on the Muslims (Sunnat-i-Mu'mineen) to do the same.

It is stated in the commentary of the Qur'aan, "Tafseer-i-Rooh al-Bayaan": "Some 'Ulama are of the opinion that the meaning of Allah's blessing is to raise Hazrat Muhammad Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to Maqaam-i-Mahmood (Glorious Station), the place from where he will intercede to Almighty Allah on behalf of his Ummat; the Angels' blessing means their prayer for enhancing the position of Hazrat Muhammad Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and beseeching forgiveness for his followers. Blessings on the path of the believers means to obey, love and eulogize him."

The honour and reverance shown to Hazrat Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is of a much greater degree than shown to Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) to whom only Angels were made to bow down (in honour). For in honouring Hazrat Muhammad Mustapha (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) Allah Ta�ala has also attributed it to Himself, whereas in the case of Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) Allah Ta�ala asked only the Angels to show honour.

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Increase your recitation of DUROOD on me on Friday because on this day Angels present themselves to me. There is no servant of Allah who recites SALUTATIONS upon me, except that his voice reaches me from wherever he is". The Companions asked even after your departure? He replied, "Yes after my departure too, because Allah has made it Haraam upon the earth to consume the bodies of the Prophets". (Jila-ul Ifhaam)

"On Fridays recite the Salawat for me repeatedly! The Salawat will be conveyed to me." (Ibn Habbaan, Ibn Majah) When it was asked whether the Salawat would be conveyed to him after his Wisaal also, the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) answered, "Soil does not rot Prophets' bodies. Whenever a Muslim says the Salawat for me, an Angel informs me of it and says, 'So-and-so's son, so-and-so of your Ummah sent his Salaam and prayed for you.'"

Allah's Messenger (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) came out and met Hazrat Abu Talha (radi Allahu anhu). The latter rose and went to him saying: "My father and mother be sacrificed for you, O Messenger of Allah! I see joy and delight in your countenance?" The Prophet (sallallahu 'alaihi wasallam) said: "Yes, for Gabriel has just come to me saying: �O Muhammad, whoever among your Community invokes blessings upon you once, Allah records for Him ten meritorious deeds, erases from his register ten evil deeds, and raises him ten degrees because of it�." (al-Sakhawi, al-Qawl al-Badi)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Invoke blessings upon me abundantly on Friday because it is a day that is (particularly) witnessed and the Angels witness it (abundantly). As soon as a person invokes blessings on me his invocation is shown to me until he ends it." Hazrat Abu al-Darda' (radi Allahu anhu) said: "Even after (your) death?" The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Verily, Allah has forbidden the earth to consume the bodies of Prophets." (Ibn Majah)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) says in a Hadith, "Definitely there are many Angels of Allah that sojourn the earth and bring the Salaam of my Ummat to me". (Nisaai; Ibn Habban)

Hazrat 'Abd ar-Rahman bin 'Auf (radi Allahu anhu) says that one day the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) came and entered a date garden. There he performed a very long prostration. Hazrat 'Abd ar-Rahman (radi Allahu anhu) feared that Allah Ta�ala had caused him to leave this world. He drew close to him and began to look at him. The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) raised his holy head from the prostration and asked what had happened to him.

He disclosed his fear to him. At this, the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that Hazrat Jibra'il (alaihis salaam) asked whether he should not give him glad tidings that Allah Ta�ala said that He would send blessings to the person who recited the Holy Qur'an on him and peace and security to the person who bade Salutations to him. (Ahmad)

These are just a few Ahaadith. It is established beyond any doubt that the recitation of Salawat and Salaam has its origin in the Quran and Hadith. Some people say that it is wrong to send Salaam to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the form of a Naat (Verses in Praise of the Prophet). Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had amongst his Ashaab, poets who used to refute the slanders of the enemies and eulogize (praise) the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) liked the poetry of Hazrat Hassan ibn Thabit (radi Allahu anhu) the most. He offered the Mimbar to Hazrat Hassan (radi Allahu anhu), who would censure the enemies and praise Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the Mimbar. Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on hearing the poetry of Hazrat Hassan (radi Allahu anhu) prayed, "Allahumma ayyidhu bi rooh hil Qudus!" (O Allah, let the holy spirit (Jibrael) be his helper (in recitation) (Mishkaat)

When Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) made Hijra and entered Madina, the people sang out, "Tala`a al-badru `alayna, Min thaniyyat al-wada`, Wajaba al-shukru `alayna, Ma da`a lillahi da`". Ulama from time immemorial have been writing and reciting Naat and Qasaa'id in Praise of Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in a variety of languages.

Some people say that it is wrong to send Salawat and Salaam because those who read Salaam put a chair in the gathering and say that the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is sitting on the chair whilst the Salaam is being read. The curse of Allah is on those liars! No true Muslim has ever done such a thing.

What is Imaan and Kufr?

What is Imaan and Kufr?

Imaan is to accept every word of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as the absolute truth and to testify whole-heartedly the reality and truth of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

One who observes the above would be called a Muslim, that is, if any of his words, actions or conditions does not reject, insult or falsify Allah Ta�ala and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

If you reject one aspect, which you know that to believe is part of Islam, then this is Kufr. For example, to reject Qiyamat, Angels, Jannat, Dozakh, Hisab, or not to believe that Salaah, Saum, Zakaah or Hajj is Fardh (obligatory) would make one out of the folds of Islam.

It is also Kufr not to believe that the Holy Quran is the Words of Allah Ta'ala.

To insult the Holy Ka'aba, the Holy Quran, or any of the Prophets or Angels is also Kufr.

To degrade any of the Sunnats (actions of the Holy Prophet sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), to make jokes of the orders of Shari'ah (Islamic law) or to reject or suspect it untrue any known and recognised aspects of Islam is also definitely Kufr.

To be a Muslim you have to, together with faith and belief, also pledge your status as a Muslim.

One must pledge his faith unless there is a difficulty, for example, you cannot speak, or to speak would mean to lose your life or would lose a part of the body, then it is not necessary to pledge your faith with your tongue. However, it is always best and a means of great reward not to say anything against Islam even to save your life.

To perform actions that are signs of Kufr and if you perform them you will be recognised as a Kaafir. For example, to wear a "Janeo" (a sacred thread worn by Hindus), or to have a lock of hair (plats for men) the same as Buddhists have, or to wear a cross are all actions of Kufr.

WHAT ASPECTS MAKES A PERSON A MUSLIM

For a person to become a Muslim it is necessary for him or her to believe Islam as the true religion and not to reject any of it's necessary aspects. A person should also not have beliefs contradictory or against the religion's necessary aspects (Zaroriyaat-e-Deen).

A Muslim must love and respect all those who are the beloved of Allah Ta�ala and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) even though that person may be his enemy.

He must disrespect and hate all those who disrespect and hate Allah Ta�ala and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) even if that person may be his beloved son.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) states: "One who loves for Allah, hates anyone because of Allah, spends for Allah and holds back for Allah, then, indeed, he has completed his Imaan."

If the person does not have the knowledge about all the religion's necessary aspect, i.e. even if he is a complete and utter illiterate, he must believe in Islam and in the Messenger of Islam (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and not have any beliefs against the necessary aspects of Islam (Zarooriyat-e-Deen).

Whether he cannot pray the Kalima (submission into Islam) properly he is still a Muslim and not a Kaafir. Therefore, if he misses Salaah, Saum, Hajj, etc. he will be a grave sinner, but will remain a Muslim. This is because deeds are not a part of faith.

Whatever is without doubt Haraam (forbidden) and to believe it as Halaal (allowed), and to believe something Haraam, which is no doubt Halaal, is Kufr, when there is no suspicion of a particular thing being Halaal or Haraam or the person knows this.

THE VALUE OF IMAAN

Until such a time a person does not love and respect the exalted Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), even though that person worships all his life, his worship is fruitless and rejected.

Numerous Jogees, Monks and Hermits take to seclusion and spend their lives in the Remembrance of Allah Ta�ala. Some of them even indulge in the Zikr of "La ilaha illal lah" (There is no god but Allah), but they do not respect and love Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). What benefit is such Ibaadah? Allah Ta�ala states in the Holy Quran: "Whatever deeds they have performed, I have destroyed them all." (Para 19: Ruku 1)

THE VALIDITY OF IMAAN DEPENDS ON TWO IMPORTANT POINTS

The validity of Imaan depends on two important points:

Respect for Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), and

To love him above all creation within the universe.

If, at any time, anybody shows the slightest disrespect for the station of Sayyiduna Muhammadur Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), then there must not remain an atom of love and respect for that person in your heart. It can be anybody whom you love and respect, for example, father, Ustaaz (teacher), children, brother, Murshid (Spiritual Guide), Molvi, Mufti, Hafez, lecturer, Imam, or friends, etc.

Such a person should be totally severed from family and community. His name should cause great discomfort to you. His knowledge or status should be absolutely rejected and discarded.

If you accepted or observed silence to his insult to Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), kept good friends with him, did not regard him as a wretched and mean-spirited person, you should check where you stand in the test of Imaan!

STEADFASTNESS IN BELIEF

Salvation depends on the fact that every single belief of the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah be so firm that one will remain firm even if the sky and the earth vanishes.

One must have great fear for his belief at all times. The Ulema of Islam state that: "One who does not fear that his Imaan may be taken away, would be stripped of his Imaan at the time of death."

Sayyiduna Umar Faruq (radi Allahu anhu) states: "If a voice calls out from the sky that all the people of the earth are forgiven but one, I would fear that the one would be me, and if the voice calls out that all the people on earth are dwellers of Hell but one, I will hope that the one be me." The status of "Khouf" (Fear) and "Raja" (Hope) must have a balance as displayed by Sayyiduna Umar Faruq (radi Allahu anhu).

WHAT IS SHIRK - POLYTHEISM

Shirk (Polytheism) is to believe someone else as lord except Allah Ta'ala or to believe someone else worthy of worship except Allah Ta'ala. This is the worst type of Kufr.

Except for Kufr, all other sins are at the will of Allah Ta'ala. Whatever He wishes, He will forgive.

A Muslim does not become a Kaafir if he commits a large sin, but remains a Muslim. If he dies without performing repentance then he will still obtain Jannah, whether it will be after fulfilling his punishment or gaining forgiveness. This forgiveness may be obtained at the Mercy of Allah Ta�ala�s will or from the intercession of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

THE ORDER OF SOMEONE ASKING FOR FORGIVENESS FOR AN INFIDEL

Whoever performs a prayer of forgiveness for a dead Kaafir, or calls a Kaafir as one who is forgiven or a Jannatee, or if someone calls a dead Hindu a "Bekanth Baashi" (Jannatee), are themselves Kaafirs.

Wives of the Holy Prophet Salallahu tala Alaihi W sallam)- Ummhat-ul-Mumineen

AYYADAH KHADIJAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) This noble lady belonged to the Quraish tribe. She is also known as "Khatijatul Kubra" or "Khadijah the Great."

Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her when he was 25 years old and she was 40 years old. She was a very devoted wife, companion and councillor, ever ready to stand by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in all trials and tribulations. She proved to be an immense support and help to the Cause of Islam. She passed away at the age of 65 years on the 11th of Ramadaan - 10 years after the first revelation. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said about her: "The noblest women of the world are Sayyadah Mariam (alaihis salaam) and Sayyadah Khadijah (radi Allahu anha)." (Bukhari Shareef) 2

. SAYYADAH SA'UDA (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) Sayyadah Sa'uda (radi Allahu anha) was a widow and the daughter of Sayyadah Zama (radi Allahu anhu). She married Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) after Sayyadah Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) had passed away. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was then 55 years old.

She was generous, affectionate and kind. The reason for his marriage was that he needed someone to care for his children so that he could concentrate on the heavy responsibilities of Prophethood. Sayyadah Aisha Siddique (radi Allahu anha) has said about her: "It is only Sa'uda, on seeing whom, I wish my soul lived in her body." Sayyadah Sa'uda (radi Allahu anha) passed away in 55 A.H

3. SAYYADAH AISHA SIDDIQUE (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) and was unmarried. In the 10th year of the mission, Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her. Since she was very young at the time of her marriage, she only began to live with him in Madinatul Munawwarah in 2 A.H. He married Sayyadah Aisha Siddique (radi Allahu anha) in order to strengthen the ties of friendship with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), his closest friend and also so that she could teach other women.

Sayyadah Aisha (radi Allahu anha) led a very simple life without comfort and luxury. She dressed very simple. She served Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with utmost devotion and he loved her very much. She led a very pious life.

When Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) passed away, she was 25 years old. Thereafter, she lived for another 48 years and saw the rule of all the four Khulafaa.

She is remembered for her intelligence, intuition, her knowledge of Hadith and principles of religion, secrets of Islamic knowledge, Arabic literature, piety and Islamic Fiqh. She became a great Madani (person of Madinatul Munawwarah) scholar and knew several thousand Ahadith by heart. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) himself used to teach her and answer her questions. She used to also teach other women. A great Scholar, Imam Zahri (radi Allahu anhu), has said about her: "Sayyadah Aisha (radi Allahu anha's) knowledge will surpass the knowledge of all the males and Mothers of the Faithful put together."

4. SAYYADAH HAFSA (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) and was a widow. In 2 or 3 A.H. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her. He also gave his own daughter, Sayyadah Umm Kulthum (radi Allahu anha), in marriage to Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu).

She was a very learned person and spent most of her time in reading and writing. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had personally taught her with the result that she was an authority on Islamic knowledge. She was also given the original hand-written copy of the Holy Quran to keep. She was very pious and saintly. She passed away in the month of Shabaan 45 A.H.

5. SAYYADAH ZAYNAB (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Khuzaimah. She was a widow and was poverty stricken. Moved by her piety and self-sacrifice, Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her in 3 A.H. Sayyadah Zaynab (radi Allahu anha) was a very kind-hearted lady and ever ready to help the poor and destitute. She would spend all her income on charity and was called"Ummul Masaakin" or "Mother of the Poor." She passed away within three months of her marriage and was buried in Jannatul Baqi.

6. SAYYADAH UMME SALMAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Abu Ummayyah Sohail. When her husband passed away she was left with four children and had no means of maintenance. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), now 57 years old, married her in the month of Shawwal in 4 A.H.

She was very beautiful and used to live a very pious life. She did all kinds of good works. She was very learned and had a good knowledge of Hadith. She was able to teach others on Islamic matters. She read the Holy Quran in the same style as Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). She was almost as learned as Sayyadah Aisha (radi Allahu anha). She outlived all the Ummahaatul Mu'mineen and passed away at the age of 84 years in 63 A.H.

7. SAYYADAH ZAINAB (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Jahsh bin Rabah and married Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harith (radi Allahu anhu), the adopted son of Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). After her divorce, she married Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in 5 A.H., when he was 58 years old.

Her marriage to Sayyiduna Zaid (radi Allahu anhu) was a lesson to all not to distinguish between a free person and a slave in social matters. She was very generous to the poor people of Madinatul Munawwarah. She passed away at the age of 53 years in 20 A.H. and lies buried in Jannatul Baqi. When she passed away, Sayyadah Aisha (radi Allahu anha) said about her: "Alas, the pious respected lady is no more and has left the orphans and widows broken-hearted."

8. SAYYADAH JUWAIRIYAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Harith and was a widow. She was a captive of war and set free by Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) who married her in 5 A.H. As a result of her marriage, the prisoners which belonged to her tribe were set free. This made many accept Islam. Sayyadah Juwairiyah (radi Allahu anha) was a highly self-respecting person. She was very religious-minded and spent most of her time in Salaah. She was also very learned. She passed away at the age of 65 years in 56 A.H. and lies buried in Jannatul Baqi. 9. SAYYADAH UMME HABIBAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was the daughter of Sayyiduna Abu Sufyaan (radi Allahu anhu) and a widow. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her when she was 36-37 years old in 6-7 A.H. This marriage also resulted in Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) accepting Islam.

She was a dedicated wife and feared Almighty Allah much. She had much regard for the poor, down-trodden and destitute and prayed a lot for the Muslims. She passed away at the age of 73 in 44 A.H.

10. SAYYADAH SAFIYAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was a Jewess and taken captive during the Battle of Khaibar. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her in 7 A.H. This made a great impact on the Jews, with the result that many accepted Islam. She was very dignified in her behaviour, patient and polite. She was very much attached to Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and he had great regards for her. She was also very generous and kind-hearted. She was also very learned. She passed away at the age of 50 and is buried in Jannatul Baqi.

11. SAYYADAH MAYMUNA (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was a widow. Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married her in the month of Shawwal when she was 51 years old. Her marriage also drew many towards Islam. She was very pious and humble and fond of advising Muslim women and freeing slaves. She was also very learned. She passed away in 51 A.H.

12. SAYYADAH MARIA QIBTIYA (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) She was given to Sayyiduna Rasulullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as a gift by the Christian King of Egypt. She accepted Islam and was very pious. Her marriage also improved the relationship with the Egyptians. She passed away 5 years after her son passed away and is buried in Jannatul Baqi.

To Proclaim "Ya Rasool ALLAH"

The Ahle Sunnah Wal Jama�at believes that to recite after every Salaah and at other times, the following verses: "As Salaatu Was Salaamu Alaika Ya Rasoolullah" (Peace and Blessings upon you, O Messenger of Allah), or to recite "As Alukash Shafaa'atu Ya Rasoolullah" (I seek from you Shafaa'at 'Intercession', O Messenger of Allah) is totally permissible.

The following Hadith proves that it is permissible to utter the above-mentioned words. Ten great Scholars of Islam have certified this Hadith Shareef. A Sahabi, who was blind by birth, was taught a special Du'a by the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), which he was to recite after every Salaah.

The Du'a is as follows: "Allahumma Inni As Aluka Wa Ata Wajjahu Ilaika Binabiyika Muhammadin Nabiyyir rahmati Ya Muhammadu Inni Ata Wajjahu Bika ila Rabbi Fi Haajati haazihi lituqda li. Allahumma Fashaf'fi'u Fiya". (O Allah, I ask from you, and turn towards you through the Wasila (Medium) of Your Nabi Muhammad sallal laahu alaihi wasallam, who is indeed a Prophet of Mercy. O Muhammad, with your Wasila (Medium) I turn towards Allah for my need so that it may be bestowed. O Allah, accept the Prophet's intercession for me).

Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Omar (radi Allahu anhu) once suffered from a cramp. Someone advised him to remember the person whom he loved the most. The great companion then proclaimed loudly, "Ya Muhammadah." It is recorded that he was immediately relieved. (Kitaabul Adaabul Mufrad) It is an established practice of the people of Medina Shareef to proclaim "Ya Muhammadah" in times of difficulty and anxiety. (Naseem-ur Riyaaz)

A drought, which was known as "Aamur Ramadah" once, occurred during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar Farouk (radi Allahu anhu). His tribe, the Bani Muzaina, approached him and complained that they were dying of hunger, and thus requested the Caliph to sacrifice a few sheep. When he told them that there was nothing left of the sheep, they still insisted.

After the sheep were cut and cleaned they noticed that only red bones were to be seen. Hazrat Bilal (radi Allahu anhu), seeing this state of affairs, proclaimed loudly, "Ya Muhammadah", in grief and concern. He was then blessed with seeing the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in his dream, who informed him of future glad tidings which did occur later on.

Imaam-e-Mujtahid Sayyidi Abdur Rahman Huzaili Kufi Masoodi (radi Allahu anhu) was the grandson of Hazrat Abdullah ibn Masood (radi Allahu anhu). He was also a very great Jurist and a Taabi'in of high rank. It is stated that he used to wear a long hat with the inscribed words, "Muhammad, Ya Mansoor."

Imaan ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu), in his book, "Oyunil Hikaayat", narrates a strange and amazing incident of three brothers who were constantly engaged in Jihad (Holy Islamic War). He narrates: Once, while engaged in Jihad with the Christians of Rome, they were captured and tortured. The King informed them that if they adopted the religion of Christianity he would set them free. The brothers refused to do so. Instead they all proclaimed aloud, "Ya Muhammadah

." The King became furious and ordered two of the brothers to be thrown into boiling oil. After a while, the youngest escaped from the clutches of his capturers accompanied by the daughter of the King, who was amazed at the piety of the young Muslim. Six months later when they were about to be married, the two martyred brothers amazingly appeared accompanied by a group of Angels. When it was inquired as to how they had survived they replied: "When you saw us being thrown into the boiling oil, you indeed saw the truth, yet as we entered the pot, we entered into the high stages of Jannah." Imam ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu) states that the brothers lived in Syria and were extremely famous. Many couplets have been written in their praise. This incident has been shortened.

Our object here is to highlight how beneficial it is to call out to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). We have seen that the brothers at a time of extreme perils and danger did not hesitate in calling to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). How were they rewarded? They were rewarded with such blessing that the two Shuhada immediately entered Jannah, while the youngest brother was saved and married the King's daughter, and the two Shuhada were actually given permission to attend the marriage of their younger brother accompanied by a group of Angels.

Hazrat Shah Wali'ullah Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu) states: "I cannot perceive anyone besides the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) who, for the depressed person at times of calamities, will forward a helping hand." (Ateebul Ghanum fi Madh-e-Sayyadal Arabi Wal Ajam)

Hazrat Shah Wali'ullah Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu) explains: In the august court of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) one should consider oneself insignificant and inferior.

With a broken heart and with total sincerity, one should call to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in Du'a. The person will indeed attain salvation if he states: "O Rasool of Allah! O Unique among the Creation! I seek your favour on the Day of Justice. On that Day when there will be a great test, only you, O Prophet of Allah, would give security from all calamities! I have turned to you for salvation and have my trust in you." (Madhiyaa Hamziya)

More than 40 great Scholars and Saints also believed that it is permissible to call out to great Saints and Prophets for assistance. Among them being Hazrat Uthman bin Haneef (radi Allahu anhu), Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam Bukhari (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam Muslim (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam Tabraani (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam ibn Jouzi (radi Allahu anhu), Ghousal A'zam, Syed Abdul Qaadir Jilaani (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam Jalalludeen Suyutwi (radi Allahu anhu), Imaam Abdul Wahab Sha'raani (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyedi Ahmed Kabeer-e-Awliya Badawi (radi Allahu anhu), Shah Wali'ullah Dehlwi (radi Allahu anhu), etc.

The most beautiful proof of calling to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is in the Attahiyaat, wherein every worshipper salutes and calls unto the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). If by using the Nida, causes one to be guilty of Shirk, then how is it that it is found in the Salaah? Some individuals state that, one does not have the intention of calling to the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the Attahiyaat, rather one is merely conveying a message. This opinion is without basis. Therefore, when we are reciting the Attahiyaat, we should not possess this belief, rather we should believe that we are directly addressing the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and sending Salaams to him, upon oneself and upon all the pious of the Ummah.

It is recorded in the books, "Tanweerul Absaar" and "Sharah Durre Mukhtaar" that: "The intention which one must possess at the time of reciting the Tashahud is the concentration on the meaning of this, that is, in other words, one must remember that one is sending Salaams upon the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and that one is praising Allah Almighty. One must be assured of the fact that one is sending Salaams and not merely relaying a message."

Allama Hasan Sharanbulaani (radi Allahu anhu), in his book, "Maraqi-ul-Falah", states: "Numerous Ulema have in fact clarified this belief. There are some misled individuals who profess that because Angels are deputized to convey the Salaams to the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), one should not use the Harf-e-Nidaa.

What these enlightened individuals have forgotten is that twice daily the deeds of the Ummati are placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). In many authentic Ahadith, it is quite clearly stated that all deeds of the individual are placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), the deceased family and the deceased parents."

Hazrat Imaam Abdullah ibn Mubarruk (radi Allahu anhu), narrated by Hazrat Sa'eed ibn Musayyib (radi Allahu anhu), who states: "Not a day or night passes by, without the deeds of the Ummati are being placed in front of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Therefore the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) recognizes his followers in two ways, firstly by their Alamat (signs) and secondly by their Amaal (deeds)."

The Holy Prophet (Salallaho tala Alaihi Wasallam) is Noor

Some persons believe that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is only a human being and not Noor (light). They say so based on the reason that the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had wives, had children, and he used to eat and drink.

The Aqeeda of the Ahle Sunnat Wa Jama'at is that he is both Noor and a human being.

The being and existence of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is even before that of human beings, but when he came into this world he came in the garb of a human being.

The Sahaba of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) lived with him and observed him with his wives and children. They saw him eating, drinking, talking, etc. but still accepted him to be Noor.

We know that Hazrat Jibraeel (alaihis salaam) is made of Noor but when he used to appear before Hazrat Maryam (radi Allahu anha) he used to appear in the form of a human being. Allah Ta'ala states in the Holy Quran: "Thus he used to appear before her in the form of a healthy (well-built) man." (Part 16, Ruku 5)

Hazrat Umar Farouk (radi Allahu anhu) narrates that once a person came before them. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) asked him if he knew who that person was, he replied: "Allah Ta'ala and His beloved Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) know better." The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that it was Jibraeel (alaihis salaam).

(Mishkaat; Bukhari Shareef) This Hadith proves that although the Sahaba referred to Hazrat Jibraeel (alaihis salaam) as a man since they saw him in the form of a human being, yet they accepted that he was in actual fact an Angel made from Noor. On many instances, he came in the form of Sahabi-e-Rasool named Hazrat Wahia Kalbi (radi Allahu anhu).

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated, "The very first thing which Almighty Allah created was my Noor." (Tafseer Roohul Bayaan; Madarijun Nabuiwat)

Once Hazrat Jaabir (radi Allahu anhu) asked the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) whom Allah Ta'ala created before anything else. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) stated: "O Jaabir! Verily, before the creation of anything else, Almighty Allah created the Noor of your Nabi from His Noor." (Muwahibul Laduniya; Zirkani Shareef)

Sayyida Halima Sa'adiya (radi Allahu anha), the wet-nurse of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), believed the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to be Noor. She said that when she used to feed the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) milk in his infancy, she never felt the need for a light in her house. (Bayaanul Miladun Nabwi; Tafseer Mazhari).

Sayyida Safiya (radi Allahu anha), the aunt of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) states that on the eve of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) she was present in his house. She said that she saw his Noor became more powerful than the light from the lamp. (Shawaahidun Nubuiwat)

Hazrat Ali Murtuza (radi Allahu anhu) said that when the Beloved of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spoke, Noor (light) used to be seen emerging from between his blessed teeth. (Muwahibul Laduniya; Anwaarul Muhammadiyah)

Hazrat Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu) states that when the beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) smiled, then the walls use to glow with his Noor. (Muwahibul Laduniya; Shifa Shareef)

Hazrat Anas (radi Allahu anhu) states that the day in which the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) arrived in Madinatul Munawwarah, everything in Madinatul Munawwarah became bright through his Noor. (Tirmizi Shareef; Ibn Majah)

Ummul Mo'mineen, Sayyida Aisha Siddiqa (radi Allahu anha) is recorded to have said: "In total dark nights, I used to put the thread into a needle with the help of the Noor of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)." (Shara Shifa Bar Hashia Naseemur Riaz)

Hazrat Imam-e-Azam Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu anhu) praises the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the following poem: "You are that Noor that the full Moon is brightened by your Noor and you are with your beauty and elegance a shining sun." (Qasidaul Nu'maan)

Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah Ansari (radi Allahu anhu) reports: I asked: "O Prophet of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), What did the Almighty Allah first create?" The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Allah first created my Noor (Light) of His Noor. This Noor travelled about according to the Will of Allah. At that time, there was no Heaven, Hell, Lawh (Divine Tablet), Pen, Earth, Skies, Sun, Moon, Jinn or Human Beings. When He decided to create, He divided that Noor into four parts. From one part He created the Pen, from the second, the Lawh and from the third, he made the Arsh (Throne).

"He divided the fourth part into a further four parts. From one, He created those Angels who carry the Arsh, from the second, the Kursi (Divine Chair) and from the third, He created the Angels.

"He again divided the remaining parts into a further four parts. From one, He created the skies. The second was used in creating the planets. From the third, Heaven and Earth were created.

"Once again, He divided the fourth part into a further four parts. From one part He created the power with which the believers see. From the second, He created in the hearts of the Believers the Noor of Marifat. From the third, He created in the tongues of the Believers, Noor, so that they can read the Kalima of Tauheed". (Dalaa'il-un-Nubuwwat, Imam Baihaqi)

This astonishing Hadith Shareef proves that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) is the life of this world and everything in it. When he is the life of this world, then everything that happens in it is clear to him and nothing is concealed from him. Who then can deny that he is not Noor (light)?

The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat

WHO ARE THE AHLE SUNNAT WAL JAMAAT? The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat is the largest group of Muslims and the only group whose beliefs and teachings are truly in accordance with the Holy Quran and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

The beliefs of this group are the same as the beliefs of the Sahaba or noble companions of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Salf-e-Saliheen (our great pious predecessors).

In many Ahadith, the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) strongly advised the Muslims to follow his Sunnah and to remain steadfast upon the path of his Sahaba, the Salf-e-Saliheen and the majority of Muslims to remain steadfast upon the way of the Ahle Sunnah.

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "I have left two things behind me for you (the Ummah). You will never go astray as long as you follow these two things. One of these two things is Allah's Holy Book (the Holy Quran) and the other is the Sunnah of his Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)." (Muwatta Imam Malik)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said that after he passes away his Ummah should remain firmly steadfast upon his Sunnah and upon the way of his four Muslim Caliphs. He advised us to follow this path alone and to be beware of innovations, which contradict the Holy Quran and his Sunnah. (Abu Dawud; Tirmizi)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Follow the way of the largest group of Muslims! For, he who deviates from this group will be thrown into Hell!" (Ibn Majah)

REMAINING WITH THE AHLE SUNNAT WAL JAMAAT

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) advised us to remain firm with the largest group of Muslims and remain steadfast upon their way in beliefs and in actions.

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Allah will never allow my Ummah to unite upon misguidance and incorrect beliefs. Allah's mercy, blessings and protection are with the largest group of Muslims. And he who deviates from this largest group of Muslims will be thrown into Hell." (Tirmizi)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "He who deviates from the largest group of Muslims, even as much as a hand span, has himself cut off his connection with Islam". (Abu Dawud)

ABSTAINING FROM MISGUIDED GROUPS The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) clearly warned his Ummah to completely abstain from joining in the gatherings of or listening to the words of any of the other misguided groups that will appear amongst the Muslims, whose beliefs will contradict the beliefs of the largest group of Muslims.

The beliefs of the largest group of Muslims will be in accordance with the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), the beliefs of the Sahaba and the Salf-e-Saliheen.

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "In the period prior to the Day of Judgement, false and deceitful groups will emerge. They will say things to you, which neither you nor your forefathers will have ever heard before. Stay away from these deceitful people and do not let them come near you! Do not be misguided by them and do not let them cause strife amongst you!" (Sahih Muslim)

DIVISIONS IN THE UMMAH

The concept of the Muslim nation separating into 73 sects, is taken from authentic Ahadith such as the following related by Hazrat Abu Hurairah (radi Allahu anhu): "The Messenger of Allah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: 'The Jews separated into 71 sects, and the Christians into 72, and my nation will divide into 73 sects.'" (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Seventy-two (of the 73 sects of the Muslim nation) will be in the fire, and only one will be in Paradise; it is the Jama'ah (i.e. Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah)." (Abi Dawud, Ad-Darimi, Ahmad)

There is another narration which states: "The Companions asked: 'Which sect will triumph (i.e. achieve salvation)?' The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: 'The sect which adheres to that (set of beliefs and practices) which I and my Companions adhere to.'"

It should be clear from these Ahadith that the one sect, out of the 73, which is to gain salvation, is the Ahle Sunnah Wa Jamaah, the only segment of the Muslim community which adheres to that which the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Companions (radi Allahu anhum) adhered to.

OPINION OF GREAT SCHOLARS AND SAINTS Ghousal Azam, Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani (radi allahu anhu) states: "There are 73 groups as foretold by Sayyiduna Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and (bear in mind that), the Ahle Sunnat wal Jamaat was the rightful group". (Ghunyatut Taalibeen)

Imam Ghazzali (radi Allahu anhu) writes: "The Ahle Sunnat Wal Jammat is the successful Firqah (group) and it is this Firqa which weighs or determines its thoughts and its according to the scales of the Holy Quran". (Mujarribaate Imam Ghazal)

Hazrat Sha Wali'ullah Muhaddith Dehlawi (radi Allahu anhu) states: "As Rasoolallah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has stated, follow this 'Sawad-e-Azam', and when the four Madhabs are within the Sawad-e-Azam then the following of any one of them, is followance of the Sawad-e-Azam. Therefore, refuting any one of them is refuting the Sawad-e-Azam". (Aqdul Jayyad)

Imam Sufyan Souri (radi Allahu anhu) states: "By Sawad-e-Azam is meant those who are called the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat". (Al Mizaanul Qubra)

Shah Abdul Aziz Muhaddith Dehlawi (radi Allahu anhu) states in his book "Fatawa Azeezi" (Vol. 2, pg. 4) that: "The various parts of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat in Aqaa'id such as the Ash'ariya, the Maaturadi, in Fiqh such as the Hanifa, the Shafi'i, the Hambali, in Tassawwaf such as the Qaaderi, the Chisti, Naqshabandi, the Suhurwardi, this servant considers all of them to be the truth".

Imam Rabbani, Mujaddid Alif Thaani (radi allahu anhu) states in the second chapter, page 67 of his "Maktubaat Shareef" that: "The way of salvation is followance of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat. May Almighty Allah Ta'ala bestow blessings upon the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat, in their speech, in their actions, laws, for this is the successful group.

Besides this, all other groups have become victims of deception. Today, nobody realises how much these misled groups will be punished, however, on the Day of Qiyamah this secret will become apparent. Even though at that time this knowledge will be of no benefit to the misled."